Parents in Pill have launched an appeal to raise £250,000 to refurbish the village school's swimming pool.

The pool, which is situated in the grounds of Crockerne C of E Primary School at Westward Drive, was built 45 years ago and is now in desperate need of repair.

The pool is currently covered by a fibre glass building which has holes in its roof and lets in rainwater.

The pool can only be used between April and October each year because, in the winter, heat leaks out of the building through the roof, making it too cold.

So far parents have raised £7,000 as a result of fundraisers, including a swimming gala, raffle and charity auction.

They are now planning to hold more money-spinning events, as well as applying for grants from charities and sporting bodies.

Crockerne C of E is one of only a handful of primary schools across the UK to have a swimming pool on its campus.

Fundraising campaign spokeswoman Sharon Lloyd said: "The current building is made of fibre glass and badly needs replacing. Because of its poor condition, we need to demolish it and provide a new building."

Mrs Lloyd is looking for more people to help with the pool fundraising effort. Anyone who wants to get involved can call her on 07794 623604.